NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 10, 2026Miami-Dade
Federal prosecutors charge speedboat operator following fatal Statue of Liberty tour capsizing
Federal prosecutors have charged a speedboat operator following a capsizing incident during a nighttime tour near the Statue of Liberty that resulted in the deaths of an infant and her mother. Authorities allege the vessel was operating as an illegal charter, was overcrowded, and had multiple safety violations.
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10 – Main FeedWhy It Matters
The incident highlights federal enforcement actions against illegal maritime charter operations and the safety standards required for commercial passenger vessels in New York harbor.
Key Facts
- A speedboat capsized during a nighttime tour near the Statue of Liberty.
- The incident resulted in the deaths of an infant girl and her mother.
- Federal prosecutors allege the speedboat was operating as an illegal charter.
- The vessel was found to be overcrowded at the time of the incident.
- The vessel was operating with multiple safety violations.
- Charges were filed against the speedboat driver on Monday.
Who's Mentioned
locationNew York Harbor“Site of the incident”personManuel Hernandez“46-year-old speedboat operator facing state and federal charges”locationNew York“Jurisdiction where the incident occurred.”personNicholas Biase“Spokesperson for Manhattan federal prosecutors”personAntonella Garcia“5-month-old victim of the capsizing”personDoreen McCarthy“U.S. Coast Guard Sector New York commander”organizationU.S. Coast Guard“Responded to the incident”personSara Sanchez“27-year-old victim of the capsizing”locationStatue of Liberty“Location of the maritime incident.”organizationAP“News agency reporting the event.”